The COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020 and continues through the present has resulted in a significant number of unforeseen disruptions to what the general world population considers “normal” life. If a “silver lining” to the COVID-19 pandemic exists, it may be the additional time at home with which many students and employees have experienced, and some of the benefits that came with that.
Many people begin their post-college lives with goals related to ways in which they hope to improve their careers and further their educations. However, the business of daily life often reduces the clarity of these goals as individuals settle into routines and adapt to changing personal and familial circumstances. The COVID-19 pandemic has served as a virtual pause button for countless people around the world. As a result, those who may have fallen out of touch with their earlier goals have been granted an opportunity to step back and revisit the direction of their lives and reflect upon their progress toward their goals.
One common goal among college graduates is the pursuit of a graduate-level degree. Given the lack of ability to attend public events and travel to an established workplace, many individuals have enrolled in graduate programs in order to maximize their time afforded by the pandemic.
There are several items that should be considered when deciding whether to pursue a graduate degree during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Review your Goals
As you consider whether to enroll in a graduate program or not, an important step is to review your original goals in order to determine if they still fit with your current circumstances. For example, if your long-term career goals will not necessarily be furthered by earning a graduate degree, it is important to compare the cost of the degree to your future earning potential once the degree is earned. Then, determine whether you still wish to pursue the degree for personal edification or focus on other areas that may lead to career advancement.
Although career advancement is important to many, earning a graduate degree has intrinsic value beyond future earning potential. The pursuit of an advanced degree often shapes and modifies one’s perspective related not only to his or her career field but also to life in general. Ultimately, the decision comes down to you. If you have the passion and time to commit yourself to the process, completing a graduate program is an outstanding venture in intellectual growth.
Consider High-Demand Areas
If you are not fully satisfied within your current career field, take the time to research the current areas that are in high demand for qualified individuals. Many people do not realize that it is possible to pursue a graduate-level degree in a different area from their undergraduate degrees in many instances. This factor allows an individual to have the potential to embark on an entirely different career path if they so choose. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has generated numerous career paths that did not exist previously, particularly within the areas of technology and communication. As a result, if you find yourself with extra time as a result of the pandemic, you might consider exploring and pursuing an advanced degree that will assist you in becoming highly marketable in the new economy.
Unique Benefits to Earning a Graduate Degree
Beyond the career benefits of holding a graduate degree, many people do not consider their added potential for teaching at the collegiate level. A number of community colleges and smaller institutions are willing to hire individuals who hold a graduate degree (without a doctoral degree) to serve as adjunct faculty members and even as full-time professors in some cases. Beyond the potential for working as an instructor at the post-secondary level, holding a graduate degree demonstrates your commitment to being the best in your field to future employers.
Potential Challenges
Naturally, the process of earning a graduate degree can be challenging. Even though you may find yourself with extra time as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, you will need to be disciplined in study habits and assignment completion; you should be prepared for the rigors of your selected program. Additionally, if you share your home with others, you should establish a work space in which you can be as free from distractions as possible in order to be able to focus as you will need a location and time to devote your full attention to your course work.
Should I?
As long as you have the time and commitment necessary to succeed in a graduate program, you should do it. The abundance of online degree programs has streamlined the graduate degree process to an extent that was unimaginable only a few years ago. As you consider your options, be sure to select the program that is best for you in terms of format, completion time, and long-term benefit. Hopefully, several years from now, you will look back and reflect upon the positive outcomes from earning your graduate degree.
